For millions in the US newly experiencing food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic, those with food allergies are facing “a particular crisis” in that most charitable and government food programs offer limited options that are safely edible. Food insecurity can be defined as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.” Under normal conditions, food pantries may offer gluten-free products or display information about allergen content. However, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, most pantries have been forced to limit food options and distribution models. The Food Equality Initiative and Porchlight Community Services are two organizations dedicated to supporting those clients with food allergies.
Multiple studies have been conducted to determine whether food insecurity is associated with asthma and, if so, to evaluate the extent of such a relationship. However, results are conflicting. Researchers are working to determine whether there is an association between food insecurity and asthma, and if so, to what extent. Multiple studies have been conducted but results are conflicting, as shown by brief descriptions of four studies published in PLOS ONE, The Journal of Nutrition, BMJ Open and Pediatrics.